Ahead of today’s clash with Nigeria in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals, Algeria’s captain, Riyard Mahrez says he is happy to play against the Super Eagles because they are a ‘big team.’
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Sports247 reports that, rather than feel cowed by the Eagles’ majestic stride to this stage of the competition, in which they are the highest scoring side with 12 goals, Mahrez enthused that Saturday’s game will be exciting to watch.
While pointing out that both sides will thrill the spectators with highly pulsating displays in a potentially explosive game, Mahrez added that it’s the type of match he likes being part of.
The former Manchester City of England dazzler and erstwhile African Footballer of The Year added that every good player should look forward to playing in such top-notch matches during a major tournament like the AFCON.
He went on to recount his memorable late direct free-kick that gave his side a 2-1 win against Nigeria during the AFCON 2019 semi-finals and admitted he hopes to enact another unforgettable moment on Saturday.
“It’s always good to play against a big team, a strong team. I’m so happy to arrive at this stage again and to play against this type of team.
“That’s where big players belong. I’m so excited and looking forward to the match, because I know it’ll be a very good game to watch,” Mahrez projected.
Sports247 reports further that Saturday’s game has additional value and importance for AFCON 2025, because the winner will go on to face hosts Morocco in the semi-finals, after The Atlas Lions beat Cameroon 2-0 on Friday night.
